Think you know how to spot red flags when you’re shopping open houses?
Finding hidden problems beneath pretty exteriors is challenging and a skill that improves over time, especially if you’re a first-time home buyer. You’ll be matching wits with a professional real estate team that likely includes a savvy home stager who expertly highlights the house’s best features without revealing the blemishes.
Before searching “open houses near me” and planning weekend visits, it’s helpful to have a short list of red flags to watch for. They’ll help you avoid bigger problems after you’ve become a proud new homeowner.
Photo by Monkey Business Images via Canva.com
Quick Fix Home Decor: When a Pretty Surface Hides Problems
Sellers want to maximize profit, often spending just enough on upgrades to boost the sale price. Watch for budget-conscious fixes that may conceal more than you bargain for.
1. Slapdash Paint
Fresh paint on doors, windows, or wood trim can be a red flag. Peeling paint can be an indication of dry rot and general poor home maintenance. If there’s a concern about dry rot or any other wood malady, ask to see the termite bond. It should include regular inspections, typically conducted annually.
A thorough home inspection will uncover more than peeling paint. Here’s what you need to know: 11 Common Issues Found During Home Inspections.
2. Rugs and…Water?
Are there one too many rugs covering an area? There’s probably a reason. Go ahead and peek underneath. You may find that they’re simply concealing discoloration, which isn’t a big deal, particularly if you can simply cover it with a rug yourself.
However, if you find that the rugs are hiding large stains, that could indicate water damage, which might suggest anything from plumbing issues to structural problems. Never underestimate a small leak.
There’s more money involved than just a property’s purchase price. Have you considered the costs of flood insurance? What Military Homeowners and Renters Should Know About Flood Insurance answers your questions.
3. The Smell of Flowers, Baked Goodies, and Candles
Flowers, candles, and baked goods can make a home feel welcoming. But if it’s over the top during an open house, something may be hidden.When visiting, if it seems that the real estate agent put out just a few too many flowers and candles, you may want to consider what scent they are trying to conceal.
If it’s a damp, musky scent, that could indicate mold. Other strong scents include pet odors, which are incredibly difficult to remove from a property. In this situation, ask for another showing of the property, but this time, minus the scents.
Looking for an open house near you? Click the image below to see MilitaryByOwner's Open House calendar.
The Overlooked Backyard
4. Cracks in the Walls
Cracks in exterior or interior walls might indicate normal structural swelling or settling—or serious foundation problems. Unfortunately, homeowners insurance doesn’t cover this kind of damage, so you’ll face an expensive problem right after becoming the owner. Take note of any type of crack in the exterior and interior, and ensure a home inspector documents their opinion on the issue.
In Why You Need a Home Inspection, you’ll learn why overlooking cracks in the wall may cost you thousands.
5. Drainage Issues
Poor drainage can lead to foundation problems and expensive landscaping repairs. To check for this, first, inspect the exterior ground edge of the property. Notice if pipes look like they’re in place (it’ll be pretty obvious if they aren’t), and see if the ground appears unusually soggy, particularly in the areas where pipes meet the ground.
Next, walk the lawn for soggy spots, and note the land’s grading relative to the house.
- Backyard higher than the house? Water may pool around the foundation during heavy rainfall.
- House higher than the backyard? The elevation difference can eventually cause soil erosion.
Take note of these issues. They could cost you thousands, if not more, in landscaping expenses that involve backyard enhancements like trenches.
Keep Your Eyes on the Details
While it’s easy to fall for a home’s charm while touring an open house, don’t let it distract you. If a property seems promising, make a list of concerns, discuss them with your real estate agent, and schedule a professional home inspection. This ensures you uncover the hidden realities before making a decision.
Want more house hunting guidance and practical tips? Get our free guide below.
